Nashville, Tennessee --- The Tennessee Department of Safety is participating in Roadcheck 2005, a 72-hour commercial vehicle inspection marathon. The goals are to increase the safety of commercial vehicle traffic and to make the roads safer for all travelers. The event, which takes place simultaneously across North America , will run from June 7-9.

During the 72-hour period, State Troopers will conduct round-the-clock roadside inspections at all nine weigh stations along Tennessee highways. They will also stop trucks for inspections at random points along the roads. The inspections will concentrate on commercial vehicle security, cargo tanks and seat belt usage, as well as other criteria.

Department of Safety Commissioner Fred Phillips says, " Tennessee conducts a high number of commercial vehicle inspections on a regular basis, and countless lives are saved because of it. We participate in this effort to draw attention to the importance of these inspections, and to raise public awareness about them."

Between July of 2003 and April of 2004, State Troopers in Tennessee conducted 50,182 vehicle inspections. Between July of 2004 and April 2005, that figure increased to 61,379 inspections.

"Commercial vehicle inspection is a priority of the Tennessee Highway Patrol," says Colonel Lynn Pitts. "This event is a great opportunity for us to educate the public, as well as to remind citizens and the trucking industry that Tennessee is serious about commercial vehicle safety."

The Tennessee Department of Safety's mission is (www.tn.gov/safety) to ensure the safety and general welfare of the public. The department encompasses the Tennessee Highway Patrol, Office of Homeland Security and Driver License Services. General areas of responsibility include law enforcement, safety education, motorist services and terrorism prevention.